League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Alameda County, CA November 2, 2004 Election
	George I. Bruno Answers Questions Candidate for United States Representative; District 13

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. What can be done to ensure that California gets its fair share of federal resources?

Establish bona fide needs, such as highways and transportation, education, jobs. Build relationships with all members of Congress, regardless of party. Campaign vigorously with the California Congressional Delegation and members of the majority party to support our needs. It is important to note that I will be representing the district as a member of the majority party in Congress.

2. What are your foreign policy priorities for the United States?

Strive to finish the job in Iraq as soon as practicable and to call on the United Nations, as an organization, as well as all member nations to support a democratic government in Iraq. It is highly important that Saudi Arabia, the de facto leader of the Arab countries, fully support this as well. Contain North Korea in its nuclear program. This should be done in full concert with China, Japan, South Korea and others in the region. In fact, the leadership in dealing with North Korea should be from these nations with the U.S. in a supportive role. Continue to take a leadership role in defeating terrorism worldwide.

3. What are your priorities for the federal budget?

Balance the budget. This should be done at a consistent pace rather than using increases in revenue in any given year to reduce a higher proportion of the debt. Why? There are programs which may need infusions of funds from the federal government that are critical to the welfare of our citizens and that are, at this time, broken or nearly broken. Specifically, they are Social Security and Health Care. I believe that a commitment from all members of Congress to reduce the debt on a scheduled annual pay down is important. This should be achievable over a reasonable period of time and will allow for funding as needed when special needs and requirements spring up. This will prevent having the deficit increase again before it is eliminated and we have a balanced budget. Having a balanced budget should always be a goal of Congress.